Research Overview

CAISN is conducting the first comprehensive survey of AIS in Canadian ports, which allows us to combine our data sets with those developed in other countries to get a better understanding of commercial shipping as a vector for AIS on a global level. Our studies began with broad geographic coverage, allowing for identification of large-scale patterns of AIS and native species distributions. These studies were essential to understanding the complement of species present and for setting up modeling procedures. Intensive studies at a finer geographic scale allow CAISN to identify the mechanisms that limit or enhance invasion success. These mechanisms are formally tested using a set of lab and field experiments. Lastly, modeling exercises are used to forecast which areas are most vulnerable to new AIS invasions, the species with the best opportunities to establish, the mechanisms most likely to contribute to new invasions, and possible intervention strategies to reduce risk of new invasions.

CAISN studies will increase understanding of the invasion process, train personnel to prevent future invasions and minimize spread of AIS already established in our lakes and coastal marine ecosystems. Species data will contribute to a national AIS database that will include zooplankton, phytoplankton, bacteria and viruses transported via ballast water. Results will identify how current federal regulations for ballast water management may be improved to better prevent the introduction and spread of AIS.